Wednesday July 26, 2023
Garowe (HOL) - Puntland's opposition politicians are threatening to conduct a unilateral election after January 8, 2024, only if President Said Deni attempts to extend his term and fails to hold the scheduled regional elections.
Former Minister of Finance of Puntland and a prominent opponent of President Deni, Hassan Shire Abgaal, on Tuesday accused Deni of using bribes to silence the Parliament and push for an extension of his tenure.
Shire, who was once a close ally to Deni, emphasized that the Parliament's actions on Tuesday clearly violated regional state law. He expressed concerns that Deni aims to exert control over Puntland at his own will, warning of the potential negative consequences of such actions.
On Tuesday, the Parliament of the Puntland Regional State unanimously agreed to amend specific provisions of the previous constitution regarding the recognition of political parties in Puntland.
The most significant change that has sparked debate is the provision that stated three parties would participate in the elections. Now, nine political parties will be allowed to participate.
President Deni, already facing discord with federal government leaders, now confronts opposition within Puntland over the issue of presidential elections for regional leaders.